Skill-based learning need of the hour

Dr Punam Suri

In the 21st century, where human potential intersects with artificial intelligence, the notion of education as mere rote learning of theoretical concepts is fast becoming obsolete. Students are no longer competing with peers, but are pitted against machines armed with artificial intelligence. Thus, college education now should be able to equip them with the competence necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Competitive turf

India’s educational landscape is experiencing a steady shift, transitioning from an industry-based economy to one propelled by knowledge and innovation. This evolution has intensified the competition among higher educational institutions (HEIs) and students for adopting a more dynamic and skill-centric approach, signaling a departure from the traditional paradigms. This change has been aptly articulated and propelled by NEP-2020 and colleges are now expected to incorporate skill training in their curriculum and also a shift to a four-year undergraduate course regime.

Challenges to deal with

But it is not going to be a cakewalk as educational institutions face various challenges in implementing NEP-2020. These challenges include upgrading infrastructure for digital learning and research, fostering industry-academia collaborations, implementing a multi-disciplinary approach and offering multiple exit points within a four-year UG degree.

Quality education delivery will rely on crucial faculty development programmes. Challenges also arise in curriculum overhaul and the shift towards competence-based evaluations. Implementing NEP’s regional language instruction policy, particularly in regions where English predominates, may also see some resistance.

Changing the prevalent teacher-centric mindset to student-centric approaches, promoting creativity and critical thinking, and fostering a culture of continuous learning, too, will require concerted efforts from all stakeholders.

The HEIs also need to get out of the ‘comfort zone’ of conventional system of education. As envisaged by the NEP- 2020, they should develop and conduct employment-oriented programmes co-developed with industry leaders.

They should also offer short-term vocational skill certificate courses. Students entering universities and colleges adopting NEP’s recommendations should be prepared to explore interdisciplinary courses and extracurricular activities, pursue internships and research projects, and cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning and adaptability.

Need for global flavour

The NEP-2020 also emphasises the internationalisation of education as crucial for the advancement of India’s knowledge-driven economy. Institutions must adopt a global perspective, recognising that internationalising education is crucial for the advancement of any knowledge-driven economy.

By attracting international scholars and fostering collaboration between Indian and foreign universities, HEIs can infuse global expertise into their curricula, enriching the educational experience for both students and faculty.

Achieving GER targets

Central to the NEP’s vision is the goal of nearly doubling the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education from 26.3 per cent in 2018 to 50 per cent by 2035, elevating the quality of HEIs and positioning India as a global education hub. This target can be achieved only if the HEIs are ready to embrace change and adapt to the evolving educational landscape.

They must understand that embracing this change is not an option but a necessity.

Linking skills with employability

The colleges and universities must seriously consider the link between skills and employability.

India has the world’s largest youth population, of which only a small percentage is formally skilled. An emphasis on formal education leaves graduates ill-equipped for the competitive job market.

The transition to holistic, skill-based education is vital for the success of both institutions and the students graduating from them. In this digital age, soft skills have become more significant. Communication, problem-solving, creativity and critical thinking are all essential for successfully navigating an automated world. For students considering higher education, it is crucial to expand their perspective and make well-informed decisions.

With the implementation of NEP-2020, students now have greater flexibility in choosing their courses and setting the pace of their studies. This newfound freedom allows them to tailor their educational journey to their interests and aspirations.

A significant shift

This shift emphasises the importance of practical, hands-on experience through on-the-job training and apprenticeships.

By actively engaging in real-world experiences, students can gain valuable skills and a competitive advantage in today's dynamic job market.

Students entering college at this time should be prepared to recognise and nurture their unique capabilities, fostering holistic development across both academic and non-academic domains.

Gone are the days of rigid divisions between arts and sciences, vocational and academic streams, or curricular and extra-curricular activities. College freshers must understand that technology and AI are tools to be leveraged, not adversaries to be feared.

By redirecting their cognitive bandwidth towards high order thinking processes and creative problem-solving, they can harness the power of technology to augment their capabilities and drive innovation.

The recognition of multilingualism and language proficiency as integral to learning, along with the promotion of essential life skills like communication, cooperation, teamwork, and resilience, underscores the holistic approach advocated by the new education policy. This holistic development is essential for preparing individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern world and contribute positively to society.

Not to miss the emphasis laid by the NEP-2020 on core human values such as empathy, respect, cleanliness, and democratic spirit, which is indeed heartening amidst the transformative changes in academia and employment. By instilling these values, institutions play a pivotal role in shaping individuals who can excel in their chosen fields while upholding the principles of humanity and integrity in their personal and professional lives. The world not only needs competent professionals, but good human beings, too, more than ever.

The writer is the Chancellor of DAV University, Jalandhar, and a recipient of Padma Shri award

Increasing numbers

4.33 crore students are currently enrolled in higher education institutes — up from 4.14 cr in 2020-21, and 3.42 crore in 2014-15.

Female enrolment in higher education increased to 2.07 crore in 2021-22 from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 ( 32% increase in seven years)

Region

Haryana
Total Universities 51
Deemed Universities 5
Private Universities 25
Central University 1
State Universities 20

Himachal Pradesh
Total Universities 25
State Universities 7
Private Universities 17
Central University 1

Jammu & Kashmir
Total Universities 11
State Universities 9
Central Universities 2

Punjab
Total Universities 35
Deemed Universities 2
Private Universities 18
Central University 1
State Universities 14

Chandigarh
Deemed University 1
State University 1

#Artificial Intelligence AI